Garmin GPS 45 Manual

The Garmin GPS 45 is a rugged, portable GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a 12-channel parallel receiver, waterproof construction (IPX7), built-in quad helix antenna, and provides position, speed, and course information. With waypoint storage, route planning, track log recording, and NMEA 0183 output, it's ideal for marine, aviation, and land-based navigation. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-channel GPS receiver, LCD display, Waterproof case, Built-in antenna, Data port, Power connector.

Feature	Description
12-channel receiver	Parallel tracking for fast acquisition and reacquisition
Waterproof (IPX7)	Submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes
Built-in quad helix antenna	High sensitivity for reliable signal reception
Waypoint storage	Stores up to 500 user-defined waypoints
Route planning	Create and store 20 reversible routes
Track log	Records up to 1024 track points
NMEA 0183 output	Compatible with autopilots and chart plotters
Backlit display	For night-time viewing
Battery power	Operates on 4 AA batteries (approx. 12 hours)
External power input	10-40 VDC for marine/vehicle use

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. Mount unit: Use included bracket for secure mounting in vehicle or boat.
3. Connect external power: For extended use, connect to 10-40 VDC source via power cable.
4. Connect to external devices: Use data cable for NMEA 0183 output to compatible devices.

WARNING! Ensure mounting surface is stable and does not obstruct view. Keep antenna clear of obstructions.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initialization procedure.

1. Acquire satellites: Place unit outdoors with clear sky view, allow 2-5 minutes for initial fix.
2. Set preferences: Use MENU button to set units (nautical/statute/metric), time format, and datum.
3. Initialize position: If prompted, enter approximate position to speed acquisition.
4. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions for electronic compass models.

CAUTION! For first use, ensure full battery charge and clear view of sky for proper satellite acquisition.

Specifications

• Receiver: 12 parallel channel, all-in-view tracking.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Accuracy: Position: 15 meters RMS; Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Acquisition Time: Hot start: 15 seconds; Warm start: 45 seconds; Cold start: 2 minutes.
• Dynamics: Up to 999 knots; Altitude limit: 18,000 meters (60,000 feet).
• Interfaces: NMEA 0183 version 2.0, GARMIN proprietary.
• Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH) or 10-40 VDC external.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard (1 meter for 30 minutes).
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Dimensions: 15.2 x 6.4 x 3.3 cm (6.0" x 2.5" x 1.3").

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, GOTO, MARK, QUIT, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right).

Display Pages: Satellite Status, Position, Map, Navigation, Highway, Menu.

Settings: Units (nautical/statute/metric), Time (12/24 hour), Datum (WGS-84 default), Alarms (anchor, arrival, off-course), Backlight (on/off, timeout). Navigation: Waypoint creation, Route planning, Track recording, GOTO navigation.

Connecting Devices

External power: 10-40 VDC input. Data: NMEA 0183 output to autopilot or chart plotter.

1. Turn off GPS before making connections.
2. Connect power cable: Red to positive, black to negative (observe polarity).
3. Connect data cable: Follow wiring diagram for NMEA 0183 connections (TX/RX, ground).
4. Secure all connections from moisture and vibration.

Tip: Use dielectric grease on external connectors in marine environments to prevent corrosion.

Navigation Functions

Basic navigation operations.

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK at current position, edit name/symbol if desired, press ENTER.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Press GOTO, select waypoint from list, press ENTER to begin navigation.
3. Follow route: Create route from waypoints, activate route for turn-by-turn navigation.
4. Record track: Enable track log to record path; save track as route for return trips.
5. View position data: Position page shows latitude/longitude, altitude, speed, heading, time.
6. Use map page: Display waypoints, tracks, and current position on simple graphic map.
7. Highway page: Visual steering guidance to destination with course deviation indicator.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation; always use in conjunction with proper charts and situational awareness.

Advanced Features

Alarms: Set anchor drag, arrival, off-course alarms. NMEA Output: Configure data sentences for compatibility with other devices. Simulator Mode: Practice navigation indoors without satellite signals.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with fresh water after saltwater use. Use mild soap and soft cloth; avoid solvents. Store in dry place when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not open case; no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/connections	Check battery installation; test with fresh batteries; check external power connections.
No satellite acquisition	Location/obstructions	Move to open area with clear sky view; ensure unit is stationary during initial fix.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Wait for better satellite coverage; ensure current almanac is loaded.
Display difficult to read	Backlight/contrast	Adjust contrast in setup menu; enable backlight for low-light conditions.
Waypoints not saving	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints to free memory; waypoint capacity is 500.
No NMEA output	Cable/settings	Check data cable connections; verify NMEA output is enabled in interface settings.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + POWER while turning on for master reset (erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.